What happens when virtual reality becomes a bridge between generations? In this episode, Erin talks with David Wyatt, Head of Communications and Business Strategy at Mighty Coconut, about how the hit VR game Walkabout Mini Golf unexpectedly became a favorite among older players.

💡 What You’ll Learn

• Why half of Walkabout Mini Golf’s players are over 45
• How the pandemic shaped a new kind of social connection in gaming
• The role of accessibility and usability in creating inclusive experiences
• How VR can support therapy, cognition, and wellbeing in older adults
• Insights on intergenerational play and the emotional value of shared experiences
• The importance of balancing novelty with familiarity in UX design

⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Designing for Dignity
01:34 – Davids Background and Journey
03:06 – The Emergence of Older Players in VR
06:20 – Understanding the Older Demographic
09:40 – Challenges in VR Adoption for Older Adults
10:04 – Designing for Accessibility
14:33 – The Importance of Social Connection
17:59 – Balancing User Feedback and Development
22:07 – Gender Dynamics in Gaming
27:24 – The Overlooked Older Audience in Gaming
31:16 – Therapeutic Uses of VR for Older Adults
34:22 – Surprises in UX
39:01 – Internal Discussions on Design Principles
43:50 – Balancing Novelty and Familiarity in Game Design